Jim Lyle

Few people impact as many lives as Jim Lyle. Jim spent his life working to provide children a safe environment to grow and learn. He was an advocate for people in need: a strong arm for the weak, a voice for those who could not speak for themselves. A man who will be remembered for his compassion, Jim truly lived the words, "It is better to give than to receive." Jim's passion was helping children, and he will be loved and remembered by hundreds of people who grew up with "Mr. Jim" at the helm of Pioneer Playschool. He was a beloved husband who will live in the heart and memory of his wife, Julie. Family held memorial services on Tuesday at Baptist Church of Covenant in Birmingham. Jim was a devoted and unfailing son to Mr. and Mrs. Tom James Lyle, Sr., and son-in-law to Mr. James Godley and Mrs. Diane Godley; a precious brother to Mr. Troy Lyle and Mrs. Stephanie Rye and brother-in-law to Mr. David Rye and Mr. and Mrs. Philip Capers. Jim was a loving uncle to Ashleigh, Dawson and Karlee Rye and Jackson and Jamie Capers. An animal lover, Jim was most content with Pixie in his lap and Sugar, Charlie, Norman, Gracie, Sam and Cleopatra at his feet. Jim's sense of humor sustained him and he found peace on the water and joy in boating and spending time at his lake home. It was at this retreat that he suffered a tragic accident surrounded by companions who fought in vain to save him. There is comfort in the knowledge that he was in his favorite place in the arms of loving friends. The Bluff Park community will long mourn the loss of a good man who will be treasured in the hearts of friends and family. Pioneer Playschool will hold a Celebration of Life Memorial Saturday, October 27, 2012 at 11 a.m. at Hunter Street Baptist Church, casual dress (blue jeans and t-shirts), children are welcome. A man of faith, Jim waits for those he left behind who celebrate the life he lived, love the man he was and wish him Godspeed.